Neckline

/ˈnɛkˌlaɪn/ noun

Definition

The edge or shape of a piece of clothing around the neck and upper chest area.

Etymology

Compound of 'neck' and 'line,' a straightforward term that emerged in the early 20th century with modern fashion terminology. It describes the outline where the fabric meets the body at the neck.

Kelly Says

Fashion designers use neckline shapes as a form of visual language—a V-neck elongates the face while a boat neck widens the shoulders, showing how something as simple as where cloth cuts can change how your whole body appears!

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Neckline terminology (plunging, modest, demure) became gendered through fashion policing and moral judgment of women's bodies, particularly from 19th-century onward.

Inclusive Usage

Use descriptive, non-judgment terms: 'crew neckline,' 'V-neckline,' 'square neckline' focus on style, not morality or gender.

Inclusive Alternatives

["neckline depth","collar style"]

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.